Greetings! As you may have noticed from my recent Instagram snaps, one of my favorite activities to do on the weekend when it's warm outside is visit the local Farmers Market downtown. Not only are the Farmers Markets the best way to support your local growers but, strolling through the aisles on a relaxing Sunday morning and soaking in all of the sights, smells, and tastes surrounding you is one of the loveliest Summer pleasures.

Just last weekend, Sam and I ventured over to the Farmers Market to scoop up some fresh bread, herbs, and other items in order to make a new seafood recipe I'll be sharing on the blog shortly. Farmers Markets can be really neat in any city or town for several reasons, but they can also be a tad overwhelming. That's why, today, I'll be highlighting my favorite and simplest way to navigate the Baltimore City market at the underpass of I-83.

When picturing a traditional Farmers Market, the first thing that comes to mind is fresh fruit and vegetables. And, while these are the obvious go-to's, there is also a ton of alternative items like coffee, farm fresh eggs, freshly baked bread, flowers, candles, jewelry, and even locally made furniture that can be purchased at the Farmers Market and thoroughly enjoyed in addition to your routine purchases.

But first, before we get carried away, let's consider the essentials: large canvas tote or backpack, water bottle, bicycle {and lock}, and preferably an empty stomach. Since parking is generally limited at the popular city Farmers Markets, Sam and I like to travel by either bicycle or our motorized scooter. It makes the trip all the more exciting.

In addition, if you plan on picking up a few bags of fresh fruit and vegetables while you're there, buying in-season is the tastiest and cheapest way to go. Take a look at this peak-season map to determine what exactly is in season for your area. Don't be afraid to ask the growers the important questions like where it comes from, how it was grown, or even what they recommend pairing that particular item with. Everyone I've met at the Farmers Market thus far has been extremely kind, helpful, and eager to answer any questions I might have.

Now, let's move onto my favorite part: breakfast. Since arriving early is the best way to avoid large crowds and empty aisles, I recommend making an immediate beeline to Zeke's {if you're visiting Baltimore} for the freshest and tastiest ground coffee. Hint: the longest lines at the Farmers Market usually indicate that that specific vendor is one of the best. These people know their stuff. After that, you might want to pick up a hot, homemade pastry or a healthy juice before venturing into the unknown.

Another awesome thing to remember about Farmers Markets is that they generally allow you to test out their products before buying. If they don't already have freshly cut samples out to try, don't be afraid to specifically ask for one. My favorite to taste: sweet corn, peaches, heirloom tomatoes, and salsa. You can easily taste the differences in each vendors produce and determine which product will fit best for your recipe or as a snack.

Buckets of freshly picked herbs are great to pick up in bulk on Sundays so that you can make fresh salads all week. I must warn you though, you'll never go back to the bagged, grocery store mixes again.

Surprisingly enough, the Farmers Market has expanded more recently into carrying vintage and consignment items in addition to handcrafted jewelry and clothing. Because of this, vintage, concert t-shirts are a hot commodity at these weekend gatherings. These are my favorite to pick up as a comfortable and casual alternative for the weekend.

Also, if you're looking for a Farmers Market tote and can't bear the thought of lugging around any old plastic bag or backpack, the hand stitched beach bags pictured above double perfectly for carrying your fresh groceries and goodies.

In addition to the juiciest peaches, softest vintages tees, freshest ciabatta bread, and more, this time of year, the Farmers Market is the absolute best place to pick up fresh flowers at half of the grocery-store or, god forbid, florist cost. The sunflowers in particular are absolutely magnificent so feel free to fill your house to the brim with them without a guilty conscious.

What else could you possibly ask for? Now, you have no excuse but to get up and run, no, sprint, to the Farmers Market and pick up all of the best goodies you can get your hands on.

I hope that you all enjoyed My Weekend Guide to the Farmers Market!

Don't forget that you can always keep up with me on the weekends and get the first look at new content coming to AEE via Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.

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